X

xenobiotics Biologically active foreign sub-
stances, such as environmental toxins that enter
the body and impair normal functioning. (By-prod-
ucts of metabolism, known as aamain Ayurvedic
medicine, are not included because they are pro-
duced internally.) A certain form of yogic breath-
ing, known as kappalbhati, is reported to use
forceful exhalation to serve as a route of elimina-
tion of any foreign or waste substances “clogging”
the body. Also in yoga, a breathing technique called
a “pranic bath” involves stimulating the sweat
glands to force off undesirable matter through the
skin. Both Ayurvedic and homeopathic medicine
acknowledge the need to eliminate xenobiotics
through the lungs, colon, bladder, and skin.
See also AAMA; YOGA.

xian The Chinese word for the salty taste of

herbs.

xin The Chinese word to describe an acidic taste

of herbs.

X rays, chiropractic A diagnostic procedure used

in chiropractic treatment to reveal the condition of

the spine.

See also CHIROPRACTIC.

xu In traditional Chinese medicine, the word for

deficiency, one of the basic diagnoses.

See also YIN-YANG.

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